The Ritz-Carlton Bacara, Santa Barbara

I just want to call out Alana at the front desk who was literally one of the kindest most incredible people I’ve met. She went above and beyond to make our stay so magical. Thank you! Also, this is one of the most beautiful properties you’ll ever stay at, with an absolutely magical pool area. Kids loved it!

Beautiful site but not worth the cost. Paper cups for in room coffee plus we had to ask each day for more, our bill included other people’s dinner, resort fee but extra cost for everything but the pool. Gift shop not open the days we were there plus walking path falling in so couldn’t use.

Had an overall pleasant and relaxing weekend getaway. The lobby and valet area is organized and very inviting. Staff were always polite and a few were exceptionally thoughtful. Special thanks to Lina at the front desk for getting us settled earlier, and Galina the tennis pro for re-stringing our racquet within one day! A few areas we felt could be better: -the rooms are spacious and clean but clearly old (chipped furniture, peeling paint, rip in curtains, bathtub wouldn’t drain). The current condition is not aligned with the $800/night weekend rate at all. -valet never answered their phone, but if you called front desk sometimes the message didn’t get passed on. We called early but occasionally the car would be retrieved only when we showed up. This is crazy given the valet (your only parking choice) is $70 per night. -we ate breakfast twice at The Bistro, the hostess team are lovely and the produce quality is excellent! On Saturday they had the buffet, however between sitting down and getting our check we never saw our server, and thus never informed that there were options you could order. We didn’t know pancakes were included until we heard another family order them as we were leaving. Also, the coffee is burnt and very bitter. The buffet for two ($120 after gratuity) would be worth it if those two things were improved. -the grounds are immaculately maintained with the exception of broken glass along some trails and beach areas. It’s further (toward the golf course) but a hazard if you’re in sandals. The property is a jewel and we hope to see them at their full potential.

We’ve had the worst experience at a Ritz Carlton, ever. The grounds are beautiful, and most of the people working here are nice, but the suite we booked was full of mold; no hot water in the sink; lights that flicker; and a fireplace that didn’t light; make-up mirror that was broken; etc. We switched rooms, only to have similar things in the new rooms. Mold on walls, lights that flicker, tv that doesn’t work, and a front desk person that didn’t offer to do anything for us. I forgot to mention, the bugs in our second room. We didn’t even get a break on the $2,300 room, per night. I can’t wait to go home!

Absolutely lovely Oasis for a break from the grind. Beautifully maintained facility and gracious staff. I had some concerns from reading the reviews of this hotel -- but I had a great experience -- and I would stay here again if in the area. Staff across the board were gracious and accommodating from check-in to check-out. I'd recommend opting for a Club Level room. The 5 meal services offered by the Cloud area great -- even if touted as light and appetizers -- we found them more than sufficient. There were lots of extra on Christmas day - Prime Rib, Ham, Salmon -- I wouldn't expect those to be standard fare. The beach and water area scenic -- but there isn't much to do there and they aren't too accessible. Overall a truly great place -- which of course comes at a high price -- but worth it for a treat.